Eukaryotic membrane proteins comprise approximately 60% of all drug targets and are consequently immensely important for biomedical research. Despite their importance, only few could thus far be studied at the structural level. My research focuses on the crystallization, structure and function of eukaryotic membrane proteins.

Electron crystallography is the main tool employed to study these proteins in my laboratory. The approach of 2D crystallization and electron crystallography is particularly suitable for highly fragile membrane proteins such as many eukaryotic ones. Initially, this involves testing of conditions for growing two-dimensional (2D) crystals, usually by reconstituting the detergent-solubilized membrane protein into a phospholipid bilayer. Once crystallization parameters have been identified by electron microscopy of negatively stained samples, electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) is employed to collect high-resolution data. The structure is then obtained by image processing.

Although electron crystallographic methods are well developed, little is known about the factors important in 2D crystallization, and screening protocols as for 3D crystallization do not exist. An important sideline of my research interests aims at developing screening methods and strategies for 2D crystallization and understanding the underlying mechanisms. Further directions of methods development are geared towards cryo-EM data collection and analysis.

The school is engaged in cutting edge research across the full breadth or modern chemistry and biochemistry. Our activities bridge traditional boundaries between scientific disciplines and involve partnerships across the campus, around the country and internationally. Research lies as the core of graduate education in the chemical and biochemical sciences, but there are also many opportunities for Georgia Tech undergraduates to work alongside our Ph.D. researchers and graduate students to develop their professional skills.

Members of our distinguished faculty are engaged in the education of ~350 Chemistry or Biochemistry undergraduate majors, ~240 Chemistry graduate students and more than 2,000 other undergraduates each year through their service teaching activities. The school’s extensive and internationally recognized research programs engage its graduate students, ~110 PhD researchers, many undergraduates and collaborators, throughout the campus and from around the world, in cutting edge science. These programs are supported by a highly talented administrative, technical and scientific staff.

The School of Chemistry and Biochemistry benefits greatly from the generosity of it alumni and friends. Our alumni help guide the future of the school thorugh our advisory board and they also help our current students through mentoring and similar activities. Funds donatedby our alumni and friends, for immediate use or to provide support in perpetuity through the creation of an endowment, enable many different activities.